Free Magic 1/2 Square Triangle Tutorial, It's Tool and Technique Tuesday!

A pinwheel/windmill block- make 2 blocks all at once with this technique!

This free tutorial will show you how to make many-(8 )-1/2 square triangle units like the ones above all at once.  You can use these to make pinwheel/windmill blocks or any block involving a 1/2 square triangle

Step 1:
To make a Magic 8, first determine what size finished half-square triangles are desired.
For example:

1. Let’s say you want to make 3” finished half-square triangles.
2. Add to your 3” measurement, 7/8”.  (Your total is now 3-7/8”)
3. Multiply your total of 3-7/8” by 2. (That equals 7-3/4”)
4. 7-3/4” squares are the size needed to make your 3” finished half-square triangles.

Step 2:
​Determine your 2 fabrics, mine are lime green and white

Step 3: 
​With right sides together, draw two diagonal lines corner to corner.

Step 4: 
​Stitch a quarter inch of either side of both drawn lines.
​

Step 5:
Carefully cut apart with out shifting the stitched fabric square.
There will be four cuts:
Cut down the centre vertically, horizontally and then diagonally on each line you drew earlier
Use a rotary cutter and ruler to make sure you are accurate 

Step 6:
​Separate all 8 units and you will see you have 8- 1/2 square triangle units made like magic!

Step 7:
​Press towards the dark fabric and sew together like the below graphic and use pins to match points (recommended)

Step 8:
​Press connecting seams open to avoid bulking up the centre seam (recommended)

Step 8:
​Admire your efforts- I think this is the easiest way to make 1/2 square triangles!

Now get busy and make a quilt entirely from the method above with pinwheels/windmill blocks LOL.

It would make a great summer quilt, don't you think?

 Send us pictures to share if you do!

​Happy Tuesday!😊